My dog has red, flaky skin and chews. Can I use coconut oil?

Question

I noticed this red patchy and flaky spot on my pup’s left elbow a few days ago and had been hoping it would resolve on its own. I have been noticing that ever since I have had him he has always been a chewer-chewing on his paws, legs, pelvis... Now there is the red and flaky patch and I am concerned. There also seems to be a developing redness around his pelvis/ groin area which is worrying me. Should I be putting coconut oil on the red spots or mixing it into his meals? I’m worried. Pet's info: Dog | Labradoodle | Male | neutered | 1 year old | 60 lbs

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM · Accepted Answer

You will need to take your dog to a veterinarian for a skin exam. Your dog could be suffering from an allergy, mites, fleas, a bacterial or fungal infection. each of these requires a different treatment, so it is important to find out what is causing the itch. Your vet will do a thorough exam and maybe a a skinscrape. He will then discuss the options with you and then prescribe medications, possibly give an injection to stop the itching. Please do not put coconut oil on the lesions nor put it in your dog's food. Unfortunately, contrary to common belief, it is not a remedy for all but can also cause allergic reactions.

My dog has red, flaky skin and chews. Can I use coconut oil?

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